Constipation Remedies
Constipation is difficulty in passing stools. Bowel movements are irregular. Constipation is a common problem. If a person experiences pain during passage of stools, or passes less than four stools per week, has a sense of incomplete stool movement after passing stools, has hard stools or has to manipulate externally for a bowel movement, then the person is said to be suffering from constipation. Lack of fiber rich foods and insufficient fluid intake are the main causes of constipation.
It can also be caused by pelvic floor dysfunction or lifestyle factors such as travel, no physical activity. Fortunately, constipation remedies for adults are simple to follow.
Lifestyle and diet changes can easily solve the problem. Drinking plenty of water and other fluids will help make bowel movements smoother.
A diet rich in fiber is also essential. Fruits, vegetables and whole grains are good sources of fiber. Intake of foods poor in fiber must be limited.
Regular physical activity is also crucial. More so, the urge to visit the toilet for passing stools must not be postponed as it can worsen the problem. If these simple tips do not work, only then should one opt for over the counter laxatives.
If even these are ineffective, then it is important to consult a doctor who may determine the exact cause of the problem and may resort to manual and surgical procedures to relieve the bladder. As for constipation remedies for children, they are mostly diet related as it is best to avoid giving the child over the counter medications and laxatives. Including fiber rich foods such as papayas is necessary. Cow’s milk should not be had excessively as it can worsen the problem. Soya milk may do the trick instead. Make the child drink a lot of fluids. Fruits such as grapes, oranges, pears and bale fruits should be added to his or her diet. Inculcate good toilet training habits in the child. Ensure that he is well rested.
Constipation in babies is mainly due to diet changes. When the baby is fed more of solid foods he may suffer from this problem. However, constipation remedies for babies are simple. A good warm bath can be helpful and so can a gentle tummy rub or belly massage. By holding the baby’s legs and making him or her do bicycle movements can also help stimulate the baby’s intestines. A baby older than 6 months can be given spinach, peaches, prunes, plums and apricots. Constipation remedies for toddlers include encouraging the child to visit the toilet. This is because due to painful stool passage, the child may totally avoid visiting the toilet. He should be made to have a lot of fluids, a lot of fiber and a lot of bran. More so bananas, milk, yogurt, cheese and cooked carrots must not be given to the toddler at least till he or she is free of constipation. For an infant suffering from constipation, it is best to consult his or her pediatrician as constipation remedies for infants need to suit the baby. Diluted fruit juices such as prune juice and grape juice is often given to a constipated infant. Breastfeeding can also be reduced till the infant is relieved of the problem. When it comes to expectant mothers, constipation is a common problem due to the boost in progesterone production. A growing uterus can also make bowel movements more difficult. A high fiber diet, adequate intake of water, frequent visits to the toilet if possible, reducing the intake of iron supplements and simple exercises are the main constipation remedies during pregnancy. Clearly for constipation, home remedies are the simplest ways to cure the problem.
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